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Sunday, 23 September 2012

Looking after is more than just feeding and exercising; it's also looking out for their health and well being. Which is hard as we would all do our best for out dogs if they could just tell us if exactly what's wrong.

But don't fret as all dogs show signs if something is wrong and it's up to the owners to look out for them all the time. One of the obvious signs - yet not the nicest - is what comes out of a dog. If they are going too often or too little, discolouration, blood, etc. - exactly like us humans - then it shows they've either ate something that isn't good for them or their diet needs to be changed.

Another sign of a dog not feeling well is that they'll show less enthusiasm to walks or play, sleeping more or less, weight gain or loss, etc. - again exactly how humans act when feeling down or unwell. These changes may be due to events in the house hold - dogs react to their owners -, changes in environment, mourning, lack of exercise - mental and physical -, etc.

To conclude always look out for your dog both in the house and outside. Make sure they are receiving enough exercise with the right diet and that their environment isn't disturbing them. But if you have any concern - even the slightest - that it might be a bit more serious: Go see your vet as soon as possible.

Sunday, 9 September 2012

We have been quite busy over the past few weeks with new dogs joining the Bruff's Bark Band but also we've also got new toys for all the dogs! Toys are very important in the a dog's life and no matter what breed there will always be a toy for the them to enjoy. They provide enjoyment, exercise - physically and mentally - and most importantly help create a natural bond between canine and owner. It's best to remember not to overwhelm your dog with too many toys as they'll not know what to do with them all.

As you can see above Moby is enjoying the new Colossal rope we've got but even Merlin, Abbey and Eigg - who are all shorter than it - enjoy it! But keep in mind that toys should be taken away when the play has ended and they should be used as treats. We have a certain chocolate Labrador who likes to bust up our toys much to our displeasure.

Secondly - though the most important of all - dogs should know their family and their position in it. Either in a single dog or multiple dog household, there should and must be a hierarchy in which the dog(s) are at the bottom of it - even below other family pets! Dogs are natural to pack leadership, the owner must always be and act as a leader. Dogs who believe they are the pack leader will become troublesome and possibly aggressive to other canines.As you can see from these photos there is a general feeling of who's the top dog: Abbey is showing her dominance to the rather posing Eigg and Starsky is showing his by checking on Hutch who constantly looks up to his brother.Once a dog knows their place, there will be times when they will challenge either the owner or other dogs in the house for dominance - this is natural of pack animals. Always remember to show them that you are the boss and harmony will return.

Here we have Woody and Ollie playing with our new pair of brothers: Starsky and Hutch.Woody and Ollie just love to play together, while Starsky and Hutch are just happy to lounge around - though they were thoroughly tired out after playing with the Family beforehand!

Now I don't know about you, but this lot are having a hell of a fun time. Playing together chasing, but best of all getting on.

Many
dogs may have a look which makes you think they are angry, scary,
aggressive or mean but you should never judge a book by it's cover.Bobby is just such an example, he looks tough but he is a gentle soul,
and prior to the work we've had him doing, a big scaredy doggie.

As we all know I have a soft spot for Winston. So when I was told he
would becoming out with a CONE on his head I roared with laughter. I
know it was a mean thing to do but you will have a wee giggle as well!
Although he was impared that did not stop this mini me giving it 110%
when out with his pals.

These two are chalk and cheese. Moby didn't like wee dogs and Millie (an
eight month old Boston Griffin) didn't like big dogs. How things change!

Giving
these two the opportunity to play, walk and learn together has brokent
he need to be defensive or aggressive. The more you are able to
'immunise' your dog to situations that alarm them, the easier it is to
have a good walk and play.

Sunday, 2 September 2012

Eigg has some of the best parents, they teach her everything, even how
to stalk a bird. We have invested in 'gun dog training' toys and manuals
to develop this little lady into a seasoned pro. Watch this space!